T5633-Ride Through the Storm - Caesar Rodney

“Ride Through the Storm.”
At 47 years old, Caesar Rodney of Delaware made one of the most consequential—and courageous—rides in American history. Suffering from a painful and disfiguring cancer and battling illness, Rodney mounted his horse on July 1, 1776, and rode 80 miles through a thunderstorm to cast the deciding vote for independence. Delaware’s delegation had been deadlocked, and the fate of unanimity hung in the balance. When Rodney burst into the chamber the next morning, still wearing his spurs, he broke the tie—and changed the course of history. Later immortalized by John Adams as “the oddest-looking man in the world,” Rodney was nonetheless known for his fire, humor, and fierce commitment. He reminds us that nations are not built by perfect men, but by those who show up—especially when it’s hard. When the storm comes, be the one who rides into it.

Categories: American History